Colin Duffy relatives remanded in custody over terrorism charges

Three relatives of prominent republican dissident Colin Duffy have appeared in court in Northern Ireland to face charges of terrorist activity.

Two of the campaigner’s brothers and a cousin were brought before a court in Lisburn, where they were accused of a variety of offences.

Colin Duffy attended the court hearing (Pic: PA)

Paul Duffy, 47, has been charged with a conspiracy to murder, collecting information that could be used by terrorists, planning an explosion and leading dissident republican terrorism.

Damien and Shane Duffy also appeared to face the same charges, with the exception of the directing terrorism allegation.

All of the men were detained and charged following an extensive investigation led by the police and security detectives from MI5. They were arrested on Monday in their hometown of Lurgan.

Approximately 20 family members and supporters of the men – including Colin Duffy – attended the hearing and watched on from the public gallery.

The three accused were remanded in custody.

In further security news, three men and a woman will appear in court in Omagh today charged with terrorism offences.

The Police Service of Northern Ireland has explained that some of the charges levelled at the four people in Omagh have rarely been used in the country’s history. It follows an investigation into dissident republican terrorist activity.